Famous people and celebrities who died on April 12

Welcome to Takemeback.to's page dedicated to remembering the celebrities and famous people who passed away on April 12. On this day, we honor the lives and legacies of notable figures from various fields who left an indelible mark on the world. Explore our list to learn about their remarkable contributions and celebrate their enduring impact.

• 1912 Clara Barton

  American founder of red cross.

• 1945 Franklin Roosevelt

  American politician, u.s.

• 1959 James Gleason

  Dies at 76.

• 1971 Igor Yevgenyevich Tamm

  Prize laureate for the discovery and the interpretation of the Cherenkov effect.

• 1975 Josephine Baker

  Josephine Baker was an American-born French entertainer, singer, dancer, and civil rights activist. She became famous in France in the 1920s for her performances, particularly her erotic and comedic dancing. Baker was also known for her work in the French Resistance during World War II and her efforts in the civil rights movement in the United States. [bio]

• 1980 William R. Tolbert

  William R. Tolbert Jr.

• 1981 Joe Louis

  Joe Louis, known as the 'Brown Bomber,' was an American professional boxer who reigned as the world heavyweight champion from 1937 to 1949 and is regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight fighters of all time. [bio]

• 1984 Edwin T. Layton

  Renowned American naval intelligence officer who played a crucial role in cryptanalysis during World War II, particularly in the Pacific...

• 1988 Alan Paton

  Alan Paton was a renowned South African writer, novelist, and anti-apartheid activist best known for his powerful novel 'Cry, the Beloved...

• 1988 Colette Deréal

  French actress and singer known for her contributions to mid-20th century French entertainment.

• 1989 Sugar Ray Robinson

  Sugar Ray Robinson was an American professional boxer considered by many to be the greatest pound-for-pound fighter in boxing history. Renowned for his outstanding combination of speed, power, and skill, he became a world champion in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. His flamboyant lifestyle and charisma made him a significant figure in American culture during the 1940s and 1950s. [bio]

• 1989 Abbie Hoffman

  Prominent American political activist and counterculture icon of the 1960s who co-founded the Yippie movement, known for theatrical...

• 1991 James Schuyler

  Prominent American poet associated with the New York School of poetry, known for his lyrical and intimate writing style that captured...

• 1997 George Wald

  American neurobiologist and academic, nobel prize laureate (d. 1997).

• 1999 Boxcar Willie

  Boxcar Willie was an American country music singer who created a unique persona as an 'old-time hobo' performer.

• 2001 Harvey Ball

  American graphic artist who created the iconic yellow smiley face in 1963, which became a global symbol of positivity and happiness.

• 2002 George Shevelov

  Ukrainian-born american academic and linguist (born in 1908).

• 2006 William Sloane Coffin

  Prominent American minister, civil rights activist, and anti-war advocate who was a leading voice in social justice movements during the...

• 2008 Patrick Hillery

  Patrick Hillery was an Irish physician and politician who served as the 6th President of Ireland from 1976 to 1990, playing a significant...

• 2008 Jerry Zucker

  Acclaimed American film director and producer known for hit movies like 'Ghost', 'First Knight', and 'My Best Friend's Wedding'.

• 2008 Cecilia Colledge

  British figure skater who won a silver medal at the 1936 Winter Olympics in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany.

• 2009 Marilyn Chambers

  Marilyn Chambers was an American pornographic actress and model who became a cultural icon of the 1970s and 1980s adult film industry. She is best known for her role in the 1972 film 'Behind the Green Door,' which marked a turning point in the mainstreaming of adult films. [bio]

• 2014 Shirley Williams

  Prominent British politician and academic who served as Secretary of State for Education and was a key figure in the Social Democratic Party...

• 2014 Pierre Autin-Grenier

  French author and poet who contributed to contemporary French literature during the late 20th century.

• 2016 Arnold Wesker

  Prominent British playwright who significantly influenced post-war British theatre, known for his powerful social realist works exploring...

• 2017 Charlie Murphy

  Charlie Murphy was an American comedian, actor, and writer, widely recognized for his work on 'Chappelle's Show' and as the older brother of Eddie Murphy. His career spanned stand-up comedy, television, and film, and he was known for his sharp wit and memorable storytelling. [bio]

• 2020 Tarvaris Jackson

  NFL quarterback who played for the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Buffalo Bills during his professional football career.

• 2022 Gilbert Gottfried

  Gilbert Gottfried was an American stand-up comedian, actor, and voice actor known for his distinctive loud, grating voice and offbeat sense of humor. He became famous for his stand-up routines, roles in films and television, and extensive voice work in animated features. [bio]